This venerable six-generation Baroville-based family have been growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier since 1847, and have practiced sustainable viticulture for several decades now. Their chalky limestone and marl vineyards extend throughout the six communes of the Côte des Bars in the beautiful Aube valley. Some of the parcels in this excellent 2010 are already over 48 years old and would qualify as ‘old vines.’ The majority come from an ideally exposed single vineyard called La Grand Côte, facing fully to the south.

Production

The 2010 is a blend of the best of various top parcels of 100% Pinot Noir. The wine was disgorged six months before being released.

Tasting Notes

This is a refreshing yet full-bodied Champagne ideal for special celebrations and food pairings such as grilled lobster, scallops, crab, sushi, veal, and roast chicken. The effervescence is delicate yet persistent, and the bubbles are very fine. The aromatics show hints of honey and poached ripe apricots, beautifully echoed on the round, rich palate. The length is sumptuous and quite complex, yet still shows a refreshing quality and a ready-to-drink liveliness. This is a beautifully constructed, artisanal small batch 2010.